ALT.DAYS

Episode #56

An ALT.DAYS Production,
A Division of Peel Productions, Inc.
Air Date: June 14, 1994
Time: Several Days After #55,
Morning to Evening

Copyright 1995

Introducing: Vanessa Marcil as Ashley Bellafiore

TEASER

JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK IS COMING DOWN THE STAIRS, DRESSED IN HIS PAJAMAS, BATHROBE, AND SLIPPERS.

JACK PAUSES AT THE FOOT OF THE STAIRS AND LOOKS AROUND, AS IF HE WERE EXPECTING A SURPRISE OF SOME KIND.

JACK CROSSES THE LIVING ROOM, STILL LOOKING AROUND, AND ENTERS THE KITCHEN.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S KITCHEN. JACK ENTERS TO FIND ROSIE AT THE SINK DOING DISHES, AND JENNIFER AT THE TABLE FEEDING ABIGAIL.

ROSIE: (WITHOUT LOOKING UP FROM THE SINK) Good morning, Jack.

JENNIFER: (STILL WATCHING ABIGAIL) Good morning, hon.

JACK LOOKS AT JENNIFER AND ROSIE WITH ANTICIPATION. AFTER A MOMENT, HE SIGHS AND GOES TO THE COFFEE MAKER AND POURS HIMSELF A CUP.

JENNIFER: Yeah, I guess so... I hadn't really noticed.

ROSIE: (LOOKING OUT THE WINDOW) Actually, it's a bit cloudy.

JACK ROLLS HIS EYES IN EXASPERATION.

ABIGAIL: All done?

JENNIFER: All done!

ABIGAIL: Jooo!

JENNIFER: You want some orange juice?

ABIGAIL SMILES AND CLAPS HER HANDS.

JENNIFER: Oh. (BEAT) Do we have any Tang?

JACK: (APPALLED) Tang? Absolutely not! Not in this house.

JENNIFER: (SURPRISED) Why not?

JACK: Tang is evil. No child of mine will be drinking that horrible, artificial, orange-juice-wannabe stuff.

JENNIFER AND ROSIE LOOK AT EACH OTHER.

ROSIE CHUCKLES.

ROSIE: Oh, not really. I'm going to go visit my sister in Brookville this afternoon...

JENNIFER: So I'm going to stay home with Abby today.

JACK: But, Abigail can go to the Daycare Center. Why do you two need to stay home?

JENNIFER: I think she might be coming down with a cold.

ABIGAIL: Code.

JENNIFER: I'd rather play it safe and keep her here today... In case she's contagious, or something...

JACK: (DISAPPOINTED) Yes, you're probably right. (BEAT) Well, I guess I'd better get dressed. I have a big day ahead...

JENNIFER: Really? Do you have something special lined up today? A big story?

JACK: Never mind. I'll tell you about it later.

JENNIFER: Okay.

JACK SETS HIS COFFEE CUP ON THE COUNTER AND GOES TO THE DOOR. HE TURNS AND LOOKS BACK AT ROSIE, THEN AT JENNIFER AND ABIGAIL. JENNIFER SMILES INNOCENTLY AT HIM. HE TURNS AND EXITS.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK GOES TO THE FOOT OF THE STAIRS AND PAUSES TO LOOK BACK TOWARD THE KITCHEN.

HOLD ON JACK'S DEJECTION.

CUT TO: JOHN'S LOFT. JOHN OPENS THE FRONT DOOR TO REVEAL BO, WHO IS HOLDING A BAG FROM "BAGEL BONANZA" AND THE MORNING EDITION OF THE SPECTATOR.

BO: Hey there, John. (BEAT) If you've got coffee, I'll share the bagels with you.

JOHN: I think I can manage that. Come on in.

BO ENTERS, AND JOHN SHUTS THE DOOR BEHIND HIM.

BO HANDS JOHN THE PAPER.

BO SITS DOWN ON THE COUCH AND STARTS TO UNPACK THE BAGELS. HE SPREADS CREAM CHEESE ON A BAGEL, WHILE JOHN POURS BO SOME COFFEE.

BO: (HANDING JOHN A SESAME SEED BAGEL LADEN WITH CREAM CHEESE) I wanted to talk. (BEAT) We haven't had a chance to do that in a while.

JOHN: Yeah, it has been pretty hectic lately, hasn't it? I've been meaning to ask...

JOHN IS INTERRUPTED BY BRADY'S CRYING COMING FROM UPSTAIRS.

JOHN GOES UPSTAIRS TO GET BRADY. BO QUICKLY POLISHES OFF HIS GARLIC BAGEL, AND STARTS IN ON THE PUMPERNICKEL. JOHN RETURNS, CARRYING BRADY.

BRADY: Hewwo.

JOHN: (HANDING BRADY HIS STUFFED BUNNY) Is this what you were looking for?

BRADY GRABS THE BUNNY AND HUGS IT CLOSE.

JOHN: That brings me back to what I started to ask. (BEAT) How is Shawn-Douglas?

HOLD ON JOHN'S QUESTION.

CUT TO: JANET'S OFFICE. JANET IS SITTING AT HER DESK AS SPENCER WALKS IN.

JANET: I object to the use of the word "good," Counselor. (GESTURING TO THE NEARLY FULL BOX OF "MR. D'S DONUTS" ON THE FILE CABINET) Care for some breakfast?

SPENCER: (APPRAISING THE BOX) I think I'll skip it.

JANET: They're nowhere near the quality of Mrs. Horton's, but it's understandable that she doesn't feel like making donuts right now. (BEAT) What can I do for you?

SPENCER SITS DOWN IN FRONT OF JANET'S DESK.

OUT ON SPENCER'S SERIOUSNESS.

ACT I

JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JENNIFER IS SITTING ON THE COUCH WITH ABIGAIL. JACK, DRESSED FOR WORK NOW, LEAPS ONTO THE LANDING.

JENNIFER STARTLES AND TURNS TO JACK. JACK LOOKS AROUND AS IF EXPECTING SOME BIRTHDAY PARAPHERNALIA.

JACK: (CRESTFALLEN) Oh. Nothing here. (BEAT) What I mean is... nothing. I was just glad you were still here so... so I could kiss you good-bye before I left for the office.

JENNIFER: Of course I'm here, where else would I be?

JACK: Oh, anywhere... doing... anything...

JENNIFER STANDS UP AND GIVES JACK A KISS ON THE CHEEK. SHE HOLDS ABIGAIL OUT FOR A KISS AS WELL.

JACK WALKS PAST JENNIFER AND BEGINS LOOKING BEHIND CHAIRS AND UNDER THE TABLE.

JACK: I'm looking for my... briefcase.

JENNIFER: I think it's in the closet.

JACK: Ah, the closet! That's it!

JACK GOES OVER TO THE CLOSET AND QUICKLY JERKS OPEN THE DOOR. HE HOLDS UP HIS HANDS AS IF TO "CATCH" A BIRTHDAY GIFT. JENNIFER, LOOKS AT HIM STRANGELY. BLUSHING, JACK BENDS AND GRABS HIS BRIEFCASE.

JENNIFER: Good-bye...

JACK LEAVES. JENNIFER SHUTS THE DOOR BEHIND HIM AND SAGS AGAINST IT IN RELIEF. ROSIE COMES OUT OF THE KITCHEN.

JENNIFER: Yes, finally. I thought he'd never leave!

ROSIE OPENS THE KITCHEN DOOR AND MOTIONS. ALICE AND MAGGIE COME IN. ALICE IS LEADING NORM ON A LEASH. ABIGAIL SQUEALS WHEN SHE SEES NORM AND STRUGGLES TO GET DOWN.

JENNIFER: Jack didn't see you, did he?

MAGGIE: No, when we saw his car in the driveway we drove around the block and cut through the Petersen's yard.

ABIGAIL CONTINUES TO SQUIRM IN HER MOTHER'S ARMS, EAGER TO SEE NORM.

JENNIFER GENTLY SETS DOWN ABIGAIL.

ABIGAIL TOTTERS TOWARDS NORM.

ABIGAIL TODDLES UP TO NORM, WHO PROMPTLY LICKS HER ON THE FACE. ABIGAIL LAUGHS AND BACKS UP A STEP. NORM LAYS DOWN ON HIS BACK, PAWS IN THE AIR. ABIGAIL CLAPS HER HANDS IN DELIGHT.

ALICE: He is, I've become quite attached to him already. (BEAT) Now, what shall we do first?

JENNIFER: Why don't you and I start on the decorations in here? Maggie, Rosie, do you want to start on the food?

MAGGIE: All right. That's my favorite part anyway!

MAGGIE AND ROSIE GO BACK INTO THE KITCHEN. JENNIFER PUTS HER ARM AROUND ALICE'S SHOULDERS.

ALICE: Not at all, dear. It's good for me to keep busy right now and you know I'm happy to help you... and surprise Jack.

JENNIFER AND ALICE SMILE CONSPIRATORIALLY, THEN HUG. HOLD ON THE TWO HUGGING.

CUT TO: KAYLA'S KITCHEN. KAYLA AND STEPHANIE ARE PREPARING A TRAY OF CANAPÉS FOR JACK'S PARTY. STEPHANIE SNEAKS ONE AND POPS IT INTO HER MOUTH.

STEPHANIE: (SMILING INNOCENTLY) Okay, no more, I promise.

KAYLA CONTINUES TO PREPARE THE CANAPÉS, WITH STEPHANIE'S "HELP."

KAYLA: Yes?

STEPHANIE: Since Uncle Jack and Uncle Marcus are my uncles, does that mean that they're brothers?

KAYLA: No, sweetness, they're not. Your Uncle Jack was your Daddy's brother. Your Uncle Marcus was Daddy's best friend.

STEPHANIE: (PONDERING) Then why do I call Uncle Marcus, "Uncle?"

KAYLA: Daddy and Uncle Marcus grew up together. They considered themselves "brothers."

KAYLA CONTINUES WITH THE FOOD PREPARATION.

KAYLA: (PUTTING A FINISHED CANAPÉ ON THE TRAY) You think Jack's funny?

STEPHANIE: Yeah. People laugh at what he says, and he looks surprised. (BEAT) I like that, because then he makes a funny face... and I laugh. (GIGGLING)

KAYLA: (SMILING) Uncle Jack makes you laugh?

STEPHANIE: (NODDING VIGOROUSLY) Yes!

KAYLA: Jack used to make your father laugh, too.

HOLD ON KAYLA'S REMINISCENCE.

CUT TO: JOHN'S LOFT. BO, JOHN AND BRADY. IN PROGRESS.

JOHN: I know that feeling. (BEAT) I'm always wondering what IzzyB would think of the way I'm raising Brady.

BO: All I know is that I wasn't prepared for the responsibility of being a single parent. (BEAT) Looking back, I pushed most of the work onto Ma and Pop. (BEAT) I think I even got involved with Carly because I wanted a mother for Shawn-Douglas. (TAKING A SIP OF HIS COFFEE) But, now I've finally realized that I have to take the responsibility for my son.

BRADY SHIFTS IN JOHN'S LAP, AND CLOSES HIS EYES. BO SMILES AT THE CHILD.

JOHN: It's been a struggle... I knew that I was going to lose her, but I wasn't prepared for the reality of being alone. (LOOKING DOWN AT BRADY) But having such a loving kid has eased the pain some. And he's taught me about what's really important in life.

JOHN LOOKS LOVINGLY AT HIS SON. OUT ON A SLEEPING BRADY.

ACT II

JANET'S OFFICE. JANET AND SPENCER SIT AT JANET'S DESK, SURROUNDED BY STACKS OF DOCUMENTS. IN PROGRESS.

SPENCER TAKES THE PAPER.

JANET: (SHAKING HER HEAD) How can someone so obviously corrupt manage to avoid serious punishment for so long?

SPENCER: I wish I knew.

JANET: You and me both. Come on... Alamain's probably committed more crimes than I can even imagine.

SPENCER: Agreed.

JANET: So... How does he do it? How does he escape prosecution?

SPENCER: I think he's got some sort of legal puppet on his side.

JANET: A what?

SPENCER: You know... someone who feeds him advice and information about how to avoid indictment...

JANET: I don't know. It seems like any good attorney could do that. Alamain's connections must go much higher...

SPENCER: "How much higher," is the question.

JANET: I wish the ISA would loosen up...

SPENCER: I don't think they know how. All part of the superspy code of secrecy...

JANET: Please...

SPENCER: Either that, or they're hiding something. And if they're hiding something, I'll bet it's enough to put away Alamain for a long time... a very long time...

JANET: Fine. Then how do we get that information?

SPENCER: I've got a source I'm meeting with (LOOKING AT HIS WATCH) in about an hour. Maybe he can tell me something...

SPENCER STANDS.

SPENCER: You'll be the first.

JANET: Thanks. Good hunting.

SPENCER SALUTES AND WALKS OUT.

HOLD ON JANET DIALING THE PHONE.

CUT TO: JACK'S OFFICE. JACK IS STANDING IN HIS DOORWAY TALKING TO HIS SECRETARY, LISA.

LISA: No, no one has called this morning.

JACK: No one? Not even my sister?

LISA: No, I'm sorry. Are you expecting a call from Mrs. Kiriakis? Shall I interrupt you?

JACK: No... (SIGHS) I was just wondering.

VERN WALKS BY. JACK STRAIGHTENS UP.

VERN: Yes, boss.

JACK WALKS TO HIS DESK AND SITS DOWN. VERN SITS IN THE CHAIR OPPOSITE.

VERN: Fine. But then it's hours before deadline.

JACK: And...

VERN: And what?

JACK: Don't you want to know how my day is going? Especially today...

VERN: Okay, Jack, I'll go along. How is your day going?

JACK: (FRUSTRATED) Fine. Just fine. (BEAT) (CHANGING TACTICS) You know, Vern, the personal ads are a wonderful thing. They make fascinating reading...

VERN: Are you thinking about placing a personal ad?

JACK: No. But I like to read them sometimes.

VERN: Uh-huh...

JACK: There were some very cute ads in yesterday's edition... a few "Happy Anniversaries," a "Congratulations on your Graduation," and a giant "Happy Birthday" in red ink. Did you see that one?

VERN: I did. (THINKING) And, you know... you're right, Jack. That would make a great feature article. We could interview couples who've met through the personal ads, people who've found long lost relatives...

JACK: (SURRENDERING) Yes, yes. Perhaps in a future issue. (ONE MORE TRY) So... what are your plans for the day, Vern?

BEFORE VERN CAN ANSWER, JO WALKS IN. JACK GRINS BROADLY AND STRAIGHTENS HIS TIE.

JO: I'm fine, son. (TO VERN) Sorry I'm late, Vern. Are you ready to go to lunch?

VERN GETS UP AND OFFERS JO HIS ARM.

JACK: (WAVING) Yes, yes. Have a good lunch, see you later.

JO AND VERN LEAVE. JACK SLUMPS AT THIS DESK, DEJECTED.

SUDDENLY JACK STRAIGHTENS, WITH A SLOW SMILE OF RECOGNITION. HE HEADS OUT THE DOOR.

HOLD ON JACK'S EMPTY DOORWAY.

CUT TO: RICHARD'S OFFICE. RICHARD IS AT HIS DESK, REVIEWING AN ARTICLE, WHEN THE PHONE RINGS. RICHARD PICKS IT UP. TWO-WAY.

ASHLEY: Oooh, you sound so official, Richard Hunt.

RICHARD: Who is this?

ASHLEY: You don't recognize my voice? I'm devastated... And after all we've been through...

RICHARD: Ashley? Ashley Bellafiore?

ASHLEY: The one and only.

RICHARD: (SMILING) Well, this is a surprise.

ASHLEY: You know me... full of surprises.

RICHARD: Some things never change.

ASHLEY: Hey, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

RICHARD: Don't tamper with perfection, or something like that?

ASHLEY: You said it, I didn't.

RICHARD: (CHUCKLING) So, how have you been?

ASHLEY: I've been great. Busy, as usual...

RICHARD: I know the feeling.

ASHLEY: So, it's not all cushy being a high-up "mucky-muck" at a new magazine?

RICHARD: Not at all.

ASHLEY: (SKEPTICAL) You mean they actually make you work?

RICHARD: Believe it or not.

ASHLEY: I'll call Ripley's...

RICHARD: Ever the skeptic...

ASHLEY: Seriously, how's the new magazine doing?

RICHARD: Very well. (BEAT) We're the new kids in town, and it's a competitive market, but I think we've got a winner.

ASHLEY: (INTRIGUED) Hmmm... I might have to check it out.

RICHARD: You should.

ASHLEY: You're really enjoying this gig, aren't you?

RICHARD: I am. (BEAT) It's a wonderful job, and I have an extraordinary boss.

ASHLEY: Well, congratulations. I'm happy for you.

RICHARD: Thanks. (BEAT) What about you? I saw your spread in "Life" a couple months ago. Superb work.

ASHLEY: Thanks.

RICHARD: What have you been up to lately? Getting into any more trouble?

ASHLEY: Trouble? Me?

RICHARD: Don't play innocent with me. I've saved your butt quite a few times...

ASHLEY: Almost as many times as I've saved yours.

RICHARD: Yes, but only because you put me... us... in danger.

ASHLEY: Come on, Richard, don't be such a wimp. No guts, no glory.

RICHARD: Whatever you say. (BEAT) So, what kind of trouble are you getting yourself into nowadays?

ASHLEY: Well...

RICHARD: Ah, so I wasn't too far off.

ASHLEY: Maybe.

RICHARD: Oh boy, here we go...

ASHLEY: Wait. I'm not even sure there'll be any trouble. (BEAT) Even if there is trouble, it'd be worth it.

RICHARD: Oh, yeah?

ASHLEY: Yeah. I'm onto something hot... very hot...

OUT ON ASHLEY'S EXCITEMENT.

ACT III

RICHARD'S OFFICE. RICHARD IS ON THE PHONE WITH ASHLEY. IN PROGRESS.

ASHLEY: What do you mean?

RICHARD: I mean, you always think you're onto a "hot" story.

ASHLEY: I don't think it. This time, I know it. We're talking Pulitzer material.

RICHARD: Is that so?

ASHLEY: Yes. This is big. Really big.

RICHARD: So, tell me about it.

ASHLEY: I can't.

RICHARD: Why not?

ASHLEY: I don't want to talk details over the phone.

RICHARD: Okay, what can you tell me?

ASHLEY: Let's just say it has to do with a recent assignment of mine.

RICHARD: That's it?

ASHLEY: For now.

RICHARD: Explain something to me, Ashley...

ASHLEY: What?

RICHARD: Why did you call me about this story if you can't tell me anything about it?

ASHLEY LAUGHS.

ASHLEY: Maybe...

RICHARD CHUCKLES.

RICHARD: Don't you always?

ASHLEY: Yes, but... this time... You swear?

RICHARD: That bad? I don't know... Maybe I need to hear more before I promise you anything.

ASHLEY: Okay... That's fair. I need to settle a few things first...

RICHARD: If you say so. (BEAT) Be careful, okay?

ASHLEY: Aren't I always?

RICHARD: (LAUGHING) That depends on your point of view. Your idea of being careful is to walk a tightrope across a pit full of alligators instead of trying to jump across.

ASHLEY: You make me sound like Indiana Jones.

RICHARD: If the fedora fits...

ASHLEY: (SMILING) Listen, I should go. When I can tell you more, I'll call. Okay?

RICHARD: Okay. (BEAT) You will be careful...

ASHLEY: I'll do my best. (BEAT) 'Bye, Richard.

RICHARD: Good-bye, Ashley.

RICHARD HANGS UP THE PHONE.

HOLD ON RICHARD'S CURIOSITY.

CUT TO: JULIE'S OFFICE. JULIE IS ON THE PHONE WHEN JACK KNOCKS AND ENTERS. SHE MOTIONS HIM IN.

JACK SITS DOWN.

JULIE PUNCHES THE "HOLD" BUTTON AND THEN THE INTERCOM BUTTON.

JULIE: Lucille, please pick up line 2 and set up a time for me to meet with Ms. Waters early next week. We'll need about an hour.

LUCILLE: (V.O.) Certainly, Ms. Williams.

JULIE: Thank you.

JULIE PUNCHES THE INTERCOM BUTTON AND HANGS UP THE PHONE.

JACK: No problem.

JULIE: So, what brings you to this neck of the woods?

JACK: Nothing in particular. I wanted to see how you're doing.

JULIE: I'm fine, thank you. And you?

JACK: (HINTING) Well, I could be better. (BEAT) I had high hopes for today, and so far... things haven't quite worked out.

JULIE: Oh, I'm sorry. Can I help?

JACK: (DISAPPOINTED THAT JULIE ISN'T CATCHING ON) No. No, I don't think so. (SOTTO VOCE) It looks like no one can help me today.

JULIE: What was that?

JACK: Nothing. (BEAT) By the way, have you spoken to Jennifer recently?

JULIE PAUSES AND THINKS FOR A MOMENT.

JACK: (DISAPPOINTED AGAIN) No, not that I know of. I was curious, that's all.

JULIE: Ah...

JACK SAYS NOTHING. JULIE LOOKS AT HIM INQUISITIVELY.

JACK: I... Yes, there was something. What was it? (BEAT) I know... Let's have lunch together. I'm sure I'll remember what it was... eventually.

JULIE: I'm sorry, Jack. I'd love to have lunch with you, but I'm swamped today. (BEAT) I'll take a raincheck...

JACK: (GLUMLY) All right.

JULIE: On that note, I should get back to work.

JACK IS STARING ABSENTLY INTO SPACE.

JACK: (SNAPPING OUT OF IT) Oh... Yes?

JULIE: I appreciate your stopping by, but I do need to get back to work.

JACK: (STANDING UP) Oh, certainly. Don't let me keep you.

JULIE: We'll do lunch soon, all right?

JACK: Sure.

JACK GOES TO THE DOOR AND OPENS IT.

JACK: Thanks...

JACK EXITS AND CLOSES THE DOOR. JULIE SMILES TO HERSELF. JACK LOOKS BACK AT THE DOOR.

HOLD ON JACK'S DISBELIEF.

CUT TO: JOHN'S LOFT. BO IS SEATED ON THE COUCH. JOHN COMES DOWN THE STAIRS AND JOINS BO ON THE COUCH.

BO: Ahhh... the simple pleasures of youth... a stuffed bunny... a warm bed...

JOHN: Bo?

BO: Hmmm?

JOHN: I wanted to ask you something...

BO: Go for it.

JOHN: How are the sessions with Dr. Ector going?

BO: I think they're going pretty well. (BEAT) It's a slow process, but I can tell that it's helping Shawn-D.

JOHN: So he is making progress?

BO: Yeah. It's a long road to recovery, but he's on his way.

BO GIVES JOHN A KNOWING LOOK.

JOHN: (SMILING) Seems I've heard that philosophy somewhere before...

BO: It does sound familiar. (BEAT) So, how's it working for you?

JOHN: Not as well as I'd like.

BO: What's up?

JOHN: Well, I was hoping that solving Carly's... (LOOKING AT BO) I'm sorry.

BO: It's okay... You don't need to dance around the subject.

JOHN: It's still gotta hurt. I don't want to dredge up bad memories.

BO: Yeah, well... (BEAT) Let's not open that can of worms right now. I want to know about you .

JOHN: Okay, if you say so.

BO: I say so.

JOHN: As I said... I was hoping that solving Carly's murder would help me regain my memory.

BO: But you did remember a lot about your past, didn't you?

JOHN: Yeah, but not all of it. There are still some pretty big gaps, and I want to fill them. I want to know my whole story... for Brady's sake. I want him to know where he comes from.

BO: So what are you gonna do?

JOHN: I'm going to get some help. (BEAT) I've made an appointment with Dr. Ector.

BO: (SURPRISED) Dr. Ector?

JOHN: Yeah. (NERVOUSLY) You don't think it's a good idea?

BO: Oh, no, nothing like that. Dr. Ector's great. (BEAT) I'm just a little surprised by the idea of you seeing a shrink.

JOHN: Believe me, I'm not 100 percent certain about it myself. (BEAT) But, I'm so frustrated. It's like I've hit a wall in my memory. Things were coming back to me so quickly for a while, and then (HITTING HIS PALM WITH HIS FIST) bam, nothing more.

BO: Well, Dr. Ector is a good doctor. If anyone can help you, he can.

JOHN: I hope so... It's still a little scary. I don't know if I want to go through with it .

BO: Why not? Afraid you won't be able to remember anything more?

JOHN: That's part of it. At the same time, I'm worried that I will remember, and I'll decide I would rather have forgotten.

BO: You can't think like that. Whatever happened in the past is history. It's done. It can't hurt you now.

JOHN: I hope not.

BO: Besides, you said you're doing this for Brady, too, right?

JOHN: You're right. I can't let my son down. (BEAT) I'm gonna do it.

BO: That's the spirit!

JOHN: Thanks, Bo. This little talk is just what I needed.

BO: Hey, don't mention it. You've been there for me plenty of times. I'm glad I can return the favor.

JOHN: Me, too.

BO: (STANDING UP) I'd better get going. I need to pick up Shawn-D and get him ready for Jack's birthday party tonight.

JOHN: Yeah, I hope Brady's getting a little extra sleep right now so he's ready for a big evening.

BO WALKS TO THE DOOR. JOHN FOLLOWS.

JOHN: Yup. (BEAT) Hey, Bo... thanks, again.

BO: You bet. (CLAPPING JOHN ON THE SHOULDER) You're doin' the right thing, going to Dr. Ector. It'll all work out fine.

BO WALKS OUT THE DOOR.

JOHN: See ya.

JOHN, LOST IN THOUGHT, PULLS THE DOOR CLOSED. OUT ON JOHN'S CONTEMPLATION.

ACT IV

KAYLA'S KITCHEN. STEPHANIE IS SITTING AT THE TABLE, COUNTING HOW MANY CANAPÉS ARE ON THE TRAY. KAYLA AND MARCUS WALK IN.

STEPHANIE: Thirty-seven, Mommy. (LOOKING UP) Hi, Uncle Marcus!

MARCUS: Hi, Steffi. Whatcha doing?

STEPHANIE: Helping Mommy.

MARCUS: I can see that. I guess I should help, too. What's left to do?

KAYLA: We need to add the toothpicks to the canapés.

MARCUS: All right. (WALKING UP TO STAND NEAR STEPHANIE AND THE CANAPÉS) I think Miss Manners would want you to bring an even number of canapés to the party... I'll just take one and...

KAYLA: (PUSHING MARCUS' HAND AWAY FROM THE TRAY) You can wait. (BEAT) Steffi, why don't you go upstairs and finish getting ready?

STEPHANIE: Okay.

STEPHANIE SKIPS OUT OF THE ROOM.

MARCUS PULLS SOME BROCHURES FROM HIS JACKET POCKET.

KAYLA: Marcus, I... I'm having some second thoughts. (BEAT) I'm not as ready as I thought I was.

MARCUS: I won't push this. (TOUCHING HER CHEEK) It means too much to me...

KAYLA: Thank you for understanding, Marcus. (TAKING THE BROCHURES) And I will think about it.

HOLD ON MARCUS AND KAYLA.

CUT TO: JANET'S OFFICE. JANET IS ON THE TELEPHONE WITH SHANE, TWO-WAY. IN PROGRESS.

SHANE: I'm still trying. The information is classified much higher than it normally would be.

JANET: Can you stop by and go through what we've got already? (BEAT) I'm in desperate need of a fresh perspective.

SHANE: I'm sorry Janet, I can't today. (BEAT) I'm expected at the Deveraux's for Jack's surprise party.

JANET: That's okay, I understand...

SHANE: I know! Why don't you come with me?

JANET: I don't think so...

SHANE: Come on... You need a break, and you do know Jack and Jennifer.

JANET: I dunno... They're all your friends.

SHANE: So?

JANET: What if someone thinks we're on a date?

SHANE: 'Scared I'll ruin your reputation?

JANET: 'Scared I'll ruin yours.

SHANE: Surely you jest. How could my reputation be harmed by arriving at a party with an intelligent, capable woman on my arm?

JANET: (SOTTO VOCE) Guess I'm lucky he didn't say I had a nice personality...

SHANE: Pardon?

JANET: Nothing. What if someone asks about us?

SHANE: (TEASING) I didn't know there was an "us."

JANET: (THOROUGHLY EMBARRASSED) I meant... Never mind... Let's just skip it.

SHANE: No. You're coming to that party with me. And if someone asks, we will truthfully say that we're two people who happened to arrive together to attend a party with some mutual friends.

JANET: (LAUGHING) Well, when you put it that way...

SHANE: I'll pick you up in about thirty minutes. (BEAT) Ta-ta.

JANET: Okay. (BEAT) Bye.

JANET HANGS UP THE PHONE. HOLD ON JANET'S SMILE AS SHE STRAIGHTENS UP HER DESK.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. VERN AND MAGGIE ARE PUTTING UP DECORATIONS FOR JACK'S SURPRISE PARTY. JENNIFER SITS NEARBY ON THE FLOOR BLOWING UP BALLOONS. ABIGAIL NAPS IN HER PLAYPEN.

JENNIFER: A little higher.

VERN STRAIGHTENS OUT THE DECORATION.

MAGGIE: I can't wait to see Jack's expression when he sees all this. Now Vern, you're sure he has no clue about the party?

VERN: (GIVES A LITTLE LAUGH) No. Jack's been hinting around all over the office about his birthday.

JENNIFER: Oh no!

VERN: Don't worry. I gave strict orders to everyone to keep a tight lid on the festivities. I hear he's getting nowhere.

MAGGIE: I hope he doesn't get too upset.

JENNIFER: Actually, I hope he does! This is one time that Jack Deveraux will definitely be outsmarted.

HOLD ON JENNIFER'S SCHEMING.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S KITCHEN. ALICE, JO, AND ROSIE ARE PREPARING REFRESHMENTS FOR THE PARTY.

JO: Good. It's Jack's favorite.

JO TAKES HER FAMOUS GREEN NOODLE TUNA CASSEROLE OUT OF THE OVEN. ALICE, WHO HAS BEEN WORKING ON THE PUNCH, LADLES SOME OUT INTO GLASSES AND GIVES IT TO JO AND ROSIE TO TASTE.

ROSIE: Maybe a little more 7-up.

ALICE POURS MORE 7-UP INTO THE PUNCH. MIXES, THEN TASTES IT.

ALICE WALKS OUT OF THE KITCHEN.

JO: Yes, and it was the hardest thing, not to wish my son a happy birthday.

ROSIE: I bet it was.

JO: At least it will be worth it once he sees the surprise.

ROSIE: Putting something over on Jack Deveraux... Who'd believe it?

HOLD ON ROSIE'S SMILE.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JENNIFER IS TAKING INVENTORY. ALICE WALKS OUT OF THE KITCHEN.

JENNIFER: Let's see... Vern and Maggie are almost finished with the decorations. The stereo is cued and ready to go. And I just got a call from Jack's secretary saying he's scheduled for a late meeting. That should give everyone plenty of time to get here. How's everything in the food department?

ALICE: I think we're nearly finished in the kitchen. Where do you want the food to go?

JENNIFER: (POINTING TO A LONG TABLE) Why don't we put the refreshments on this table? (TURNS TO ANOTHER TABLE) And we'll put the cake on that table.

JENNIFER STOPS TALKING AND COVERS HER MOUTH.

ALICE: What's wrong?

JENNIFER: The cake! Where's the cake?

ALICE: I haven't seen it.

JENNIFER: (PANICS) Don't tell me I've forgotten about it! Was I supposed to pick it up? Did I forget to order it?!

THE DOORBELL RINGS, AND MAGGIE GOES TO ANSWER THE DOOR.

WE SEE MAGGIE OPEN THE DOOR AND DOUG ENTERS, HOLDING A LARGE PINK BOX.

JENNIFER TURNS AROUND AND SEES DOUG HOLDING THE CAKE.

DOUG PLACES THE CAKE ON A TABLE.

JENNIFER: (SMILING) I'm sure this whole night will be unforgettable.

OUT ON JENNIFER'S SMILE.

ACT V

JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM/FRONT PORCH. THE PARTY DECORATIONS ARE IN PLACE, AND MOST OF THE FOOD IS SET ON THE TABLES. ALICE SITS ON THE COUCH, WATCHING ABIGAIL PLAY WITH NORM. MAGGIE AND ROSIE PUT FINAL TOUCHES ON THE REFRESHMENTS. VERN, JO, AND DOUG STAND TALKING. JENNIFER PEEKS THROUGH THE WINDOW, ON THE LOOKOUT FOR JACK. SHE SEES JULIE ARRIVE, AND GREETS HER AT THE DOOR.

JULIE WALKS INSIDE.

JENNIFER: Vern told me. He must be impossible.

JULIE: I had to practically sneak out, for fear that Jack would pounce from behind a plant and interrogate me about where I was heading.

JENNIFER: (ROLLING HER EYES) I thought Jack would be nosey, but this is too much. (BEAT) If you'll excuse me, Julie, I'd better get back to my window lookout duty.

JENNIFER RETURNS TO PEEK OUT THE WINDOW. DOUG WALKS UP TO JULIE AND GIVES HER A KISS.

JULIE: Fine, except for Jack and his Miss Marple routine. (NOTICING THE CAKE) That must be Lorenzo's latest baking masterpiece.

DOUG: Marvelous, isn't it?

JULIE NODS AND DOUG AND JULIE GO TO TALK WITH VERN AND JO. MICKEY AND BILL ARRIVE, CARRYING PRESENTS. BILL GIVES JENNIFER A QUICK KISS, AND SITS NEXT TO ALICE ON THE COUCH. MICKEY PLACES THE PRESENTS NEXT TO THE CAKE, AND GOES TO GREET MAGGIE.

MAGGIE: I certainly hope so. Jennifer's so excited about this surprise.

MICKEY: She's not the only one. I can't wait to see Jack's expression. (HOLDS UP A CAMERA) I plan on capturing it on film!

GO TO: THE FRONT DOOR, WHERE KAYLA, MARCUS, STEPHANIE, JOHN, AND BRADY ARRIVE. JENNIFER GREETS THEM.

MARCUS HANDS JENNIFER A PLATE OF APPETIZERS.

JENNIFER: Thank you! They look delicious. Don't tell me you made these, Marcus?

KAYLA POKES MARCUS IN THE RIBS.

JOHN: Mmm, those look good!

JOHN TRIES TO GRAB ONE OF KAYLA'S CANAPÉS, BUT KAYLA PLAYFULLY SLAPS HIS HAND AWAY.

JOHN: But, Marcus had one.

MARCUS: (SMILING) Two.

JENNIFER: (LAUGHING) Go ahead and help yourself. (POINTS TO THE REFRESHMENT TABLE) I'm sure Jack won't mind if you start eating. (BEAT) I'll bring Brady and Stephanie over with Abby. I've got some toys for the kids to play with, but it seems Norm's been a great baby-sitter as well as entertainment provider!

JOHN PUTS DOWN BRADY, BEFORE HE AND MARCUS HEAD OVER TO THE REFRESHMENT TABLE. KAYLA SHAKES HER HEAD, AND GIVES A KNOWING LOOK TO JENNIFER BEFORE GOING TO TALK WITH JO. JENNIFER LAUGHS, AND LEADS STEPHANIE AND BRADY TO THE FLOOR AREA NEAR THE COUCH.

GO TO: THE FRONT PORCH. SHANE AND JANET ARE ABOUT TO ENTER THE HOUSE, WHEN BO AND SHAWN-DOUGLAS ARRIVE.

SHANE AND BO SHAKE HANDS.

SHANE BENDS DOWN TO TALK WITH SHAWN-DOUGLAS. JANET, NERVOUSLY PLAYS WITH THE BRACELET SHE WEARS.

BO: Oh, we're doing okay.

BO REACHES DOWN AND TUSSLES SHAWN-DOUGLAS' HAIR.

BO, SHAWN-DOUGLAS, SHANE, AND JANET ENTER THE HOUSE WHERE JENNIFER GREETS THEM. JENNIFER POINTS TO THE OTHER CHILDREN, AND BO LEADS SHAWN-DOUGLAS IN THEIR DIRECTION. NORM, WHO HAS BEEN LYING DOWN, SITS UP WHEN BO AND SHAWN-DOUGLAS APPROACH.

STEPHANIE: It's Norm!

BO REACHES DOWN TO PET NORM, WHO RETURNS THE GREETING BY LICKING BO'S HAND.

SHAWN-DOUGLAS TENTATIVELY REACHES OUT TO NORM. NORM NUZZLES SHAWN-DOUGLAS' HAND AND THEN LICKS HIS FACE. THE OTHER CHILDREN LAUGH. AT FIRST, SHAWN-DOUGLAS LOOKS AS IF HE MIGHT START TO CRY, BUT THEN LAUGHS. HE JOINS THE OTHER CHILDREN, PLAYING WITH NORM. BO SMILES AND SITS NEXT TO ALICE.

ALICE: (SMILING) It seems to fit him, don't you think?

BO: It sure does. (BEAT) How are you doing?

ALICE: I'm fine, dear. How about yourself? Shawn-Douglas seems to be improving.

BO: It's going slowly, but you're right. He's getting better.

GO TO: BILL, MICKEY, AND MAGGIE.

MAGGIE: She seemed fine all day. I think keeping busy has helped.

DOUG AND JULIE WALK UP, JUST AS ALICE STANDS UP AND WALKS INTO THE KITCHEN. DUTIFULLY, NORM FOLLOWS ALICE.

DOUG: I have a feeling a certain canine companion is responsible for that.

JULIE: Uncle Bill, that was a great idea to get Grandma a dog.

BILL: Norm's definitely been a godsend!

GO TO: THE REFRESHMENT TABLE, WHERE MARCUS AND JOHN ARE SAMPLING THE FOOD. KAYLA JOINS THEM.

MARCUS: We're trying.

JOHN: I think there's a vegetable dip we haven't gotten to yet.

KAYLA LAUGHS AND PUTS HER ARM AROUND MARCUS.

JOHN: Oh, I'm fine. Caroline and I were talking about the trouble I'm having remembering my past.

KAYLA: Still haven't remembered everything?

JOHN: Nope, and it's probably time for me to do something about that. Caroline recommended James Ector.

MARCUS: He's a good doctor. If anyone can help you, I'm sure James can.

JOHN: I'm banking on it.

GO TO: JENNIFER, WHO CONTINUES TO STARE OUT THE WINDOW. BILL WALKS OVER TO HER.

JENNIFER: Thanks, Dad. I hope Jack thinks so... and that he's not too disappointed that I pretended to forget all about his birthday this morning.

BILL: I'm sure once he sees all you've done, any disappointments will quickly blow away.

A CAR PULLS UP TO THE HOUSE, AND JENNIFER QUICKLY TURNS AROUND.

THE ROOM QUIETS, AND JENNIFER DIMS THE LIGHTS. SHE PICKS UP ABIGAIL AND WAITS BY THE FRONT DOOR. AS THE DOOR SLOWLY OPENS, A HUSH FALLS OVER THE ROOM. JACK WALKS IN DEJECTEDLY, WITH HIS HEAD BENT LOW. SUDDENLY, THE LIGHTS TURN ON AND ALL THE GUESTS SCREAM "SURPRISE!!!" JACK'S MOUTH FALLS OPEN IN DISBELIEF, JUST AS A FLASH FROM A CAMERA GOES OFF. OUT ON JACK'S SURPRISE.

ACT VI

JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK CONTINUES TO STAND IN FRONT OF THE PARTY GUESTS, MOUTH AGAPE AND SPEECHLESS. HOLDING ABIGAIL, JENNIFER WALKS UP TO JACK AND KISSES HIM.

JACK DROPS HIS BRIEFCASE. PEOPLE START TO LAUGH AND APPLAUD. THE SONG "BIRTHDAY" BY THE BEATLES BEGINS TO PLAY ON THE STEREO. THE GUESTS START TO MINGLE. JACK LOOKS AT JENNIFER AND HE SLOWLY SMILES.

JENNIFER: How could I forget, especially with all your obvious hints?

JACK: They weren't that obvious. (HE LOOKS AT THE DECORATIONS) Did you do all of this?

JENNIFER: I had some help.

JACK TAKES ABIGAIL INTO HIS ARMS.

ABIGAIL PUTS HER INDEX FINGER TO HER MOUTH.

JACK: From now on, there are to be no more secrets in this family. (WHISPERS INTO ABIGAIL'S EAR) Even if your Mommy insists.

MICKEY, MAGGIE, AND BILL WALK UP TO JACK, JENNIFER AND ABIGAIL.

JACK: Let's just say it's something I'll never forget.

SMILING, JACK TAPS ABIGAIL ON THE NOSE AND PUTS HIS ARM AROUND JENNIFER.

MAGGIE: The look on your face was priceless!

JACK: How much do you want for those negatives?

MICKEY: (LAUGHING) Nice try, Jack. But I think this one goes into the family album.

MAGGIE: Let's get a picture of the cake before it gets eaten.

MICKEY AND MAGGIE HEAD OVER TO THE CAKE. ABIGAIL STARTS TO SQUIRM.

JENNIFER TAKES ABIGAIL FROM JACK, AND SITS ON THE COUCH WITH BILL. KAYLA AND MARCUS WALK UP TO JACK. KAYLA GIVES JACK A HUG.

JACK: "Surprised" doesn't even begin to describe it.

MARCUS LAUGHS AND PATS JACK ON THE BACK.

JACK: As long as it's the last time.

KAYLA: If I know Jennifer, I wouldn't count on it.

JACK: I'm afraid you know my wife all too well.

MARCUS LAUGHS.

MARCUS GRINS AND HEADS OVER TO THE TABLE.

KAYLA FOLLOWS MARCUS AS BO WALKS UP TO JACK AND SHAKES HIS HAND.

JACK: Thank you for coming, Bo.

BO: A surprise being pulled on Jack Deveraux? I wouldn't have missed it.

JACK: I'll never live this down.

BO: Probably not. Jennifer put more planning into this party than Eisenhower did for the D-Day invasion.

WE HEAR A BURST OF LAUGHTER FROM THE CHILDREN, WHO ARE PLAYING.

BO: It's a slow process, but I think we'll be okay...

JACK: That's good news.

BO: Yes, and hopefully things can get to the point where I can finally spend some time with my beautiful goddaughter.

JACK: I'm sure she'd like that. But for now, your son is your number one priority.

BO: Thanks for being so understanding.

GO TO: SHANE AND JANET, STANDING NEAR THE KITCHEN.

SHANE: Instead of answering my questions, they kept coming back with questions of their own. It was like the bloody Spanish Inquisition.

JANET: Oh no! I didn't expect the Spanish Inquisition!

SHANE: (DEEP VOICE) Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition!

SHANE AND JANET BREAK INTO LAUGHTER.

JANET: (PLACING HER HANDS ON HER HIPS) And what particular type is that?

SHANE: Oh I don't know? Someone who likes to eat Spam, perhaps?

JANET AND SHANE LAUGH AGAIN. JOHN WALKS UP AND SHAKES SHANE'S HAND.

SHANE: Good to see you, John.

JOHN TURNS TO JANET.

JANET: The usual madness.

JOHN: I can remember that all too well. (BEAT) I understand you have my dear brother in custody. Is he behaving himself?

JANET: You probably don't want me to get into that.

JOHN: That bad, huh?

SHANE: You know, John, you might be able to help us. Can you think of anything else about Lawrence?

JOHN: I'm afraid you guys know everything I do. Although...

SHANE: Yes?

JOHN: I'm hoping to do something soon about my past. My lost past, I should say. If I remember anything important, I'll let you know.

JANET: Thank you. At this point we'll take anything we can get.

GO TO: JO, VERN, JULIE, AND DOUG, STANDING NEXT TO THE PUNCH BOWL. JACK WALKS UP TO THEM, SHAKING HIS INDEX FINGER AT VERN.

VERN: Oh come on, Jack! You don't honestly think we'd give away the surprise.

JACK: You could've given me a hint.

JULIE: But why? It's so fun watching you squirm.

JACK MAKES A FACE AT JULIE. JO GIVES JACK A KISS.

JACK: Good investigative skills!

DOUG: I'm surprised you didn't have the phones tapped.

JACK: (EVIL GRIN) I'll have to remember that for next year...

JO, VERN, JULIE, AND DOUG ALL MOAN IN UNISON. JENNIFER WALKS UP TO JACK AND HANDS HIM THE CORDLESS PHONE.

JACK TAKES THE PHONE FROM JENNIFER, AND HOLDS IT TO HIS EAR. ONE WAY.

OUT ON JACK'S SMILE.

ACT VII

JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. THE PARTY GUESTS ARE STARTING TO MILL AROUND AND HELP THEMSELVES TO FOOD AND DRINK. JACK IS IN THE MIDST OF THEM ALL, TALKING ON THE PORTABLE PHONE TO ADRIENNE, ONE-WAY.

JACK, STILL CHUCKLING, HANGS UP THE PHONE. JOHN AND SHANE COME UP AND SHAKE JACK'S HAND.

SHANE: Many happy returns, old fellow.

JACK: Thank you. I'm glad you both could be here. (BEAT) I think I'm still in shock...

SHANE PUTS AN ARM AROUND JACK'S SHOULDERS AND SHAKES HIM A LITTLE.

JACK: Ah, but there was a better spy working on the other end... Jennifer.

JOHN: With a little help from her grandmother, I suspect.

JACK: I have heard that spy technique is inherited genetically... Speaking of Mrs. Horton, I see her and her shadow over there by the punch bowl. Will you excuse me?

JOHN AND SHANE CLAP JACK ON THE BACK AS HE MOVES AWAY. JACK GOES UP TO ALICE AND HUGS HER.

ALICE: Happy birthday, Jack darling.

JACK LEANS DOWN TO GIVE NORM A PAT.

ALICE: I think so, too.

JACK: I... I hope that having this party isn't... well... disrespectful to Dr. Horton.

ALICE: Of course not! Tom was very excited about this party.

JACK: But how...

ALICE: Jennifer has been planning it for months.

JACK: But still...

ALICE: No "buts." Tom would want everyone to celebrate life and have fun. He loved birthdays.

JACK: I remember. You and Dr. Horton brought me that cake two years ago... right before Jennifer went to New York.

ALICE HOLDS OUT A SMALL WRAPPED PACKAGE TO JACK.

JACK TAKES THE GIFT AND LOOKS AT THE CARD.

ALICE: Tom bought this for your birthday right after the Benefit for the Community Center. He was quite impressed with your reading...

JACK RIPS OPEN THE PACKAGE TO REVEAL A SLIM VOLUME BOUND IN DEEP GREEN MOROCCO.

JACK LOOKS UP AT ALICE, HIS EYES FILLED WITH TEARS. ALICE, MISTY-EYED AS WELL, SMILES. THE TWO HUG TIGHTLY.

SUDDENLY THE LIGHTS GO OUT AND JENNIFER COMES OUT OF THE KITCHEN, BEARING THE CAKE WITH BLAZING CANDLES.

JENNIFER SETS THE CAKE ON THE TABLE AS EVERYONE GATHERS AROUND. JACK SCOOPS UP ABIGAIL AND STANDS IN FRONT OF THE CAKE, NEXT TO JENNIFER. AS EVERYONE SINGS "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" JACK LOOKS AROUND AT THE CROWD, BEAMING. THE SONG ENDS AND EVERYONE BREAKS INTO APPLAUSE AND CRIES OF "MAKE A WISH!" JACK GRASPS ABIGAIL MORE FIRMLY.

THE TWO LEAN OVER THE CAKE AND BLOW OUT THE CANDLES. ABIGAIL CLAPS HER HANDS AND THEN STICKS THEM IN THE FROSTING.

EVERYONE LAUGHS AS JACK EXTRICATES ABIGAIL FROM THE CAKE AND PUTS ONE OF ABIGAIL'S FINGERS IN HIS MOUTH.

JENNIFER LEANS IN TO WIPE OFF ABIGAIL'S HAND.

JACK LEANS DOWN TO GIVE JENNIFER A KISS. HOLD ON THEIR EMBRACE. AND OUT. FADE TO BLACK.

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